Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:56 pm on 4 December 2018.
You'll be aware that the Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Public Services last week published a written statement on the role of town and community councils in Wales in future. Clearly, when considering local government provision and any reforms in Wales, this sector, which is the level of government closest to the people, is vital. Many would argue that the sector has been ignored over the first 20 years of devolution in Wales, with scant focus given to it and scant changes made in it. Now, the independent review panel has proposed a set of recommendations, some of which are potentially far reaching, particularly with regard to powers, engagement and accountability. I believe that we need a further debate on these proposals in this place. With that in mind, would the Cabinet Secretary for local government make an oral statement on this issue, which would allow us time to discuss and develop a way forward?